RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko has reportedly expressed a clear preference to join Manchester United, despite Newcastle United submitting an improved €80 million bid, including €75 million upfront and €5 million in add-ons, to secure the 22-year-old Slovenian forward, according to sources close to the transfer talks.
Manchester United, confident that Sesko is waiting for them, are now focused on reaching an agreement with Leipzig, who have a gentleman’s agreement allowing Sesko’s departure for around €70–€80 million.
The Red Devils’ pursuit, led by director of recruitment Christopher Vivell, could reshape their attack, even as Newcastle’s higher offer keeps them in the race.
Sesko Prefers Manchester United
Benjamin Sesko’s preference for Manchester United has shifted the dynamics of his transfer saga, with the Slovenian striker reportedly informing his representatives on August 5, 2025, of his desire to move to Old Trafford, per Sky Sports News.
Despite Newcastle’s aggressive push, including a second bid matching Leipzig’s €80 million valuation, United’s project under manager Ruben Amorim has impressed Sesko.
The club’s recent signings of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, costing over £130 million, signal an ambitious rebuild, appealing to the 6ft 5in forward known for his pace and finishing.
United’s informal talks with Leipzig, ongoing since July 30, aim to finalize a deal potentially involving a player-plus-cash swap with Rasmus Højlund.
Newcastle Improved Bid Sesko
Newcastle United’s improved bid for Sesko, tabled on August 4, 2025, reflects their urgency to secure a replacement for Alexander Isak, who is linked with a £110 million move to Liverpool, according to The Athletic.
The Magpies’ offer, structured as €75 million plus €5 million in add-ons, surpasses United’s €75 million plus €10 million proposal, but Leipzig has yet to accept either.
Newcastle’s co-owner Jamie Reuben led positive talks with Leipzig and Sesko’s agent, Elvis Basanovic, who was spotted at Leipzig’s training ground.
Despite their financial commitment and Champions League football, Newcastle face a setback as Sesko leans toward United, potentially influenced by the club’s global stature and Vivell’s prior connection from Sesko’s Red Bull Salzburg days.
Leipzig Gentleman’s Agreement
A gentleman’s agreement in Sesko’s 2024 Leipzig contract, running until 2029, allows him to leave for a top club offering €70–€80 million.
This clause, replacing a previous €65 million release, has fueled interest from United, Newcastle, and earlier from Arsenal and Chelsea, who signed Viktor Gyökeres and Liam Delap, respectively.
Leipzig’s managing director, Marcel Schäfer, confirmed multiple approaches, stating, “Several clubs have shown strong interest,” but emphasized the club’s high valuation, potentially reaching €100 million in a bidding war.
Sesko’s absence from Leipzig’s pre-season friendly against Atalanta on August 2, coupled with his comments to teammates about an imminent departure, signals a likely move before the transfer window closes.
Manchester United Transfer Strategy
Manchester United’s transfer strategy under Amorim prioritizes Sesko to bolster their attack, following a season where they scored only 44 Premier League goals.
The club’s £74 million bid (€75 million plus €10 million add-ons), reported by BBC Sport, reflects their belief in Sesko’s potential to outshine Højlund, who may be loaned to Leipzig as part of negotiations.
United’s financial flexibility, bolstered by sell-on clauses for Anthony Elanga and others, allows them to pursue Sesko without immediate sales, despite spending £133.5 million on Cunha and Mbeumo.
Vivell’s scouting history with Sesko at Salzburg strengthens United’s pitch, though Leipzig’s insistence on a high fee and payment structure remains a hurdle.
Sesko’s Premier League Potential
Sesko’s Premier League potential is evident from his 39 goals and eight assists in 87 Leipzig appearances since joining from Salzburg in 2023. His 21 goals last season, including four in the Champions League, showcase his lethality, with 36.8% of shots from long range.
Compared to Erling Haaland for his 6ft 5in frame and 35.69 km/h sprint speed, Sesko’s physicality suits the Premier League, though his consistency has been questioned after Leipzig’s poor 2024-25 season.
United fans are excited, citing his fit in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system alongside Mbeumo and Cunha. However, his adaptation to Old Trafford’s scrutiny remains a risk, as noted by The Athletic’s Carl Anka.
The transfer battle for Sesko shows the Premier League’s competitive market, with United’s optimism hinging on Leipzig’s willingness to negotiate below Newcastle’s offer.
With Leipzig evaluating bids and Sesko favoring United, the coming days will determine if Old Trafford secures its top target or if Newcastle’s financial edge prevails.
